There are hundreds of animals at the Humane Society of the Black Hills just waiting for a new home.
It’s a full kennel at the Humane Society in Rapid City, but executive director Jerry Steinley said it’s not just fido keeping them busy.
“We’re pretty full right now," Steinley said. "We’re full with both cats and dogs, and we’ve got rabbits and we’ve got frogs, we’ve got a little bit of everything down here. Usually about this time of year it slows down a bit, and it never did, so we’re just humming along at full capacity. It doesn’t change anything other than we continue the work we’re doing. I think it affects the animals more than us.”
But Steinley said families should think hard before gifting any pets.
“I think if you’re going to adopt an animal for Christmas just make sure it’s a decision the family has made, the adults have made, and it’s not an emotional, last-minute decision for the kids, because it is such a responsibility," Steinley said. "We don’t want to see an animal go out into your house and then a month later come back.”
For families ready to adopt, there have been changes since COVID.
“We do everything by appointment now, so you find one on the website or find one in person, walk around and find the animal you want to adopt," Steinley said. "Then, set up an appointment with adoptions, then you’ll meet with them – the adoption advisor – about the specifics of the animal, and they’ll get the animal back into your home.”
There are associated fees for adoptions from the Humane Society, starting with $150 for cats and $250 for dogs. Representatives say this is to ensure the homes they adopt to are able to support the well-being of the animals.